Aflac says scammers using name in ‘prize' fraud

Columbus-based insurer Aflac issued an alert on Monday warning consumers that the company’s name is being used in fraudulent mailings claiming recipients are winners of a sweepstakes.

An Aflac spokeswoman said fraudulent letters and checks bearing the company’s brand have been mailed to consumers in many states. The letter instructs recipients to cash the fraudulent check and wire cash to pay taxes before “winners” can claim prizes.

“We urge consumers to disregard any letter or check that suggests a promotional reward bearing the Aflac name -- the letter and the check are bogus, and the check will not be honored by any financial institution,” Aflac said in the alert. “Aflac would never require policyholders to wire funds prior to obtaining legitimate claims payments.”

Aflac said it has been in contact with federal authorities and the Better Business Bureau regarding the mailings.